Background and Aim: The practice of keeping animals as pets is becoming increasingly common. The upsurge of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing organisms of animal origin is a health threat globally. This study aimed to identify the presence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli in companion dogs in animal clinics in Surabaya, Indonesia.

Materials and Methods: A total of 85 rectal swab samples were collected from companion dogs at five animal clinics in different regions of Surabaya, Indonesia. The presence of E. coli was identified from the samples using standard methods, followed by antibiotic sensitivity testing. The resistant isolates were examined for the presence of ESBL using the double-disk synergy test method. The phenotypically identified ESBL-producing E. coli was further confirmed with an automated system using Vitek-2.

Results: The rectal swab samples (n=85) tested were 100% positive for E. coli isolates. Eight (9.41%) out of the 85 E. coli obtained from rectal swabs were extended-spectrum β-lactamase producers. All eight ESBL-producing E. coli were identified by automated Vitek-2 confirmatory tests.

Conclusion: This study provides insight into the prevalence of ESBL-producing organisms isolated from companion dogs in Indonesia. This work indicates the need for the general public to be more aware of the role of companion animals in disseminating pathogenic organisms, since they serve as potential reservoirs in the spread of antibiotic resistance affecting human health.

Keywords: animal clinics, companion dogs, extended-spectrum β-lactamase, Escherichia coli, human health.